Armed kidnappers have demanded a staggering sum of two hundred million naira (N200,000,000) as ransom for the release of a retired customs officer, Emmanuel Owolabi. The victim was violently taken from his home in Ora-Igbomina, located in the Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State.
Violent Night Attack in Border Community
The abduction occurred on the night of Monday, December 15, 2025. According to accounts from the community, a group of heavily armed bandits invaded the ancient town. Before seizing Owolabi from his residence, the assailants killed the leader of non-indigenes in the town. Local security guards and community vigilantes attempted to repel the attackers but were overpowered due to the superior weaponry of the kidnappers.
A family source, who spoke anonymously, confirmed the ransom demand to the Nigerian Tribune. The source appealed to close associates, friends, and good Samaritans for assistance while indicating that the family would attempt to negotiate with the kidnappers for a possible reduction in the ransom amount.
Security Mobilization and Manhunt Intensifies
The Inurin of Ora-Igbomina land, High Chief Isaac Fadipe, confirmed the distressing incident. He revealed that a combined team of Amotekun operatives, local hunters, and vigilantes has been deployed into the surrounding bush to track the bandits and secure the victim's release.
Chief Fadipe painted a harrowing picture of the attack's aftermath. He stated that the kidnappers, while fleeing with their victim towards Kwara State, encountered a man working with charcoal who was using a headlamp. The gunmen shot the man, and it was his 10-year-old son who later brought the tragic news to the town. "We are now living in perpetual fear, and we want the government to act fast on the people’s security," the chief lamented.
He further explained that the traditional ruler of Ora-Igbomina has alerted other leaders in the area to help block potential escape routes. The police were immediately informed and have been active at the scene.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
The spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command provided an update on the situation. He stated that police operatives and volunteers gave chase immediately after the incident was reported. The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Ora-Igbomina station is personally at the victim's house gathering details.
While confirming the kidnapping, the police spokesperson noted that the report of a person being killed had not yet been substantiated. "We have a tactical team on the ground there now, and with support from the forest guards, vigilantes, and local people security personnel, they are in the bushes after the assailants to rescue the victim," he said. The Commissioner of Police has deployed additional tactical teams to the area, and a full-scale investigation and rescue operation is ongoing.
The community of Ora-Igbomina, which shares borders with both Ekiti and Kwara States, has made a passionate appeal to the state government for enhanced security presence to protect residents from such cross-border criminal activities.
